Chelsea will intensify their pursuit of Leeds United midfielder Tyler Adams this week, according to The Athletic.
The Blues have been eyeing the United States midfielder, whose contract at Leeds includes a release clause valued at around £20 million.
Chelsea’s primary target in defensive midfield remains Brighton & Hove Albion’s Moises Caicedo, but the Seagulls rejected their fourth bid of £80 million for the 21-year-old last month.
However, Chelsea will make another attempt to secure Caicedo’s signature. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Caicedo negotiations and the Adams deal are separate.
Adams is also a target for Aston Villa after Leeds suffered relegation from the Premier League.
Despite his team’s struggles, Adams’ performances have not gone unnoticed. He was stellar for club and country and even captained the United States at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The 24-year-old joined Leeds from RB Leipzig last summer. He made a solid impression in 24 league appearances in his debut season.
A hamstring injury in March hampered Adams’ contribution, sidelining him during their run-in and forcing him to miss international fixtures in June.
However, there’s hope for Chelsea and Adams’ suitors, as Leeds boss Daniel Farke provided an update on the player’s injury. Farke said Adams is nearing a return to training.
With his tenacity and ball-winning ability in midfield, Adams would be an invaluable asset for any club.
Despite the transfer speculation surrounding him, the midfielder was present at Elland Road to witness Leeds’ opening Championship fixture on Sunday – a thrilling 2-2 draw against Coventry City.
Chelsea’s interest in the midfielder will likely become a concrete offer as they bid to sign a defensive midfielder or two.
They have needed reinforcements there for the past few years, and the two-time Champions League winners are ready to address the issue.
